After a big running day yesterday to reach Katherine, the Peace Run enjoyed a lighter schedule today — covering just 100 km between the teams.
This gave everyone a chance to slow down, take in the surroundings, and appreciate the beauty of this part of the world.
Hon. Jo Hersey introduced herself to the team while we were in Katherine, partway through our run for the day. She had been looking for us the night before during the festivities at the showgrounds, and was thrilled to catch up with us before we left town.
As an avid runner herself, she was genuinely interested in the event and keen to hear more about our journey. It was a lovely send-off from this beautiful town in the Territory.
After departing Katherine the increased traffic on the road was quite noticeable and in contrast to the relative solitude of our Kimberly adventure.
The women's team continued along the highway, completing their km for the day and finishing just short of Edith Falls —a spot we’d heard was a “must-visit.”
With some extra time on our hands, we discovered the stunning waterfalls and swimming holes.
There are some beautiful views from various lookouts as we hiked to and from the upper water hole.
The area was like a natural water park being enjoyed by people hiking, swimming, and relaxing. Many had seen the Peace Torch along the road and were excited to meet the team, chat, and learn more about the Peace Run.
The upper swimming hole is inaccessible to crocodiles and therefore afforded us the luxury of a refreshing dip. We were all laughing like little kids as we played in the waterfall.
The cool refreshing water washed off much of the dust of the road and some of the inner cobwebs that build up from days and days of endless running. It was a tremendously rejuvenating and refreshing experience.
After the refreshing break, we made our way to Pussycat Flats Campground, the site of an old racetrack, where we set up our tents right on the former course.
We are very grateful to the owners for kindly donating us the space to camp.
As the day ended, we were treated to yet another spectacular sunset — this time in Pine Creek, on the edge of the breathtaking Kakadu National Park.
